The Valasa Devarlu Ritual: An Age-Old Tradition in Chittoor District
In the heart of Andhra Pradesh lies the district of Chittoor, home to several villages where traditional rituals still hold a prominent place. Among these rural practices, one stands out due to its age-old roots and its unique characteristics – the Valasa Devarlu festival. This rural festival dates back to the reign of emperor Srikrishna Devarayalu, also known as Krishna Devaraya, and holds a significant place in the district’s cultural life.
Valasa Devarlu: A Beacon of Hope During Difficult Times
Valasa Devarlu is not just a celebration, but a beacon of hope for the local inhabitants facing unfavorable natural conditions. It is celebrated when the sowing season is on the brink of closing, typically during periods of drought, crop failure, and epidemic breakouts. As part of this unique ritual, villagers abandon their homes at dawn and retreat into the fields or tank bunds, which serve as their refuge until dusk.
A Day Marked by Community Spirit and Devotion
The typical Valasa Devarlu day begins with village elders performing special pujas to the goddess ‘Valasa Devaramma’. This deity, represented by an idol made from clay, is often consecrated under a tent or a tree. Following this religious ritual, a community lunch is organized, setting the stage for the population’s return to their village. The rest of the day is then marked by singing, dancing, and conversation, with male members offering prayers at the famed Gangamma temple atop the Boyakonda hillock, followed by animal sacrifices.
The Influence of Emperor Krishna Devaraya on the Valasa Devarlu Festival
| Name | Reign | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Srikrishna Devarayalu | Tuluva Dynasty, Vijayanagara Empire | Extension of empire across South India |
Emperor Krishna Devaraya: A Pillar of the Vijayanagara Empire
Krishna Devaraya was a ruler of great import in the Vijayanagara Empire of South India. As the third ruler of the Tuluva Dynasty, he expanded the empire to include what is now Karnataka, Northern Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh, reaching as far northeast as Cuttack. Devaraya ascended the throne during a critical stage of the empire, solidifying it into a flourishing force to reckon with. His rule also witnessed notable victories over the Bahmani Sultans and Portuguese, forcing them to abandon their expansion plans.